The 2019 NAHB International Builders’ Show® (IBS) Scholarship Program is accepting applications from NAHB members between the ages of 21-35 through June 15.
In 2018, the scholarship program welcomed 20 ambitious young professionals to Orlando. After the show, they shared some of their most valuable takeaways.
The Multitude of Products on Display
With more than 1,500 top manufacturers and suppliers from around the globe, the show floor is a great place to meet vendors and discover new products.
“I was able to get so much product knowledge, and we’re going to start using new vendors on our houses.” – Anna Fosmire, Crabbe Homes, Clarksville, TN
“I got to see a new product launch from one of my main window lines—something I never would have seen if I hadn’t been at the show.” – Zeke Keel, Southern Window Supply, Birmingham, AL
“It definitely helps to have a minute with the manufacturers to learn how they install their products.” – Lynch Christian, Four Points Construction, Inc., Berkeley County, WV
Education, the Centrals & Communities
Packed with more than 140 education sessions—in addition to the presentations found on the show floor and inside niche-specific Centrals—IBS education is one of the greatest draws for young professionals.
“There were a couple of education sessions where I felt like they were speaking to me. I was sitting there like, ‘Yes, this is what I want to hear!’” – Dana Spanjer, Spanjer Homes, Fort Collins, CO
“Going to the Custom Building Central, I had the opportunity to meet with like-minded individuals; and had deep discussions about the presentations.” – Kristopher Gardner, Magleby Construction, Lindon, UT
“I definitely came away with a lot of good things that I can use in my work now and in the future. I specifically attended the Building Systems Council presentations and learned a lot about what’s going on around the country.” – Brandyn Deckinga, Habitat for Humanity of Kent County, Grand Rapids, MI
Networking & Connecting with Others
Scholarship recipients spent considerable time networking, which is key to career-building and business-growth.
“You never know who you’re going to run into, what services you might share, what you might have in common or who knows who.” – Elenore Decos, MonGroup Properties, Inc., Shrewsbury, NJ
“The stories you hear when talking to people are the best part because you can extract little bits and pieces that make sense for you and your market.” – Gabe DaSilva, DaSilva Group, Inc., Union County, NJ
“My favorite thing about the show was interacting with fellow builders from across the country. I talked to builders about what they were doing with different financing programs, what software they were using and how they handled client selections. I also talked to people who weren’t builders about what they’re seeing in the industry.” – Kristi Allen, Wood Castle Homes, Jordan, UT
Young Pros: Eager to experience the Builders’ Show first-hand?
If you’re an NAHB member between the ages of 21-35, get the IBS 2019 scholarship details now and apply by Friday, June 15 to be considered.